Which route to RN is best?

[khalacey]

I'm currently a sophomore at a major state university studying a non-nursing degree in health science. I want to get into nursing but if I changed my major now it would take me at minimum another year to complete the prerequisites, and two years for clinical coursework. My school has very competitive admissions and due to one very difficult semester, I am not able to reach the desired GPA for my school and my chances of getting in are slim. Therefore, I have narrowed down to 3 options. There are two associates programs for RN's in my hometown. The relative cost for both would be equal to the cost per year of tuition+living expenses for my current university. These programs would take me ~3 years to complete and then I would work while studying to get my BSN. My second option is an accelerated BSN program. I have researched these and know I can complete the prerequisites on time, but the cost is so high for something that seems like a more lateral move, as I will already have a bachelors. My third option, and my favorite, is a masters entry program in nursing. There aren't many of these, however, and I am sure admissions are very competitive. The ones I am most interested in are in Chicago, but that is over 5 hours from my hometown and my family would not like my being so far from home. My ultimate goal is to be a nurse practitioner, so what are the pros and cons of each of these? Any advice or experience is helpful.

[RNsRWe, ASN, RN]

My advice would be to read through the dozens (if not hundreds?) of similar questions and similar situations posed on these forums over time. While no one can tell you what route is "best" for you (only you can), you can make a more informed decision after doing some more reading throughout AllNurses.

Good Luck to you!

[RunBabyRN]

I agree with RNsRWe. There are a TON of threads asking this question, and ultimately, only YOU can decide what's right for you.

My personal opinion, cost is a major factor. I would consider the ADN programs. Some employers aren't into hiring candidates from direct entry master's programs, as they have no prior nursing experience, and with the hiring climate as it currently is, you need to be competitive. A lot of people do their ADN and work to get the BSN. Then going into your master's program, you'll have a couple of years at least of nursing experience, which will serve you well. It'll also help your perspective in school.

Good luck!

[windsurfer8, BSN, RN]

There isn't a "best way" that is why there are multiple options. Just look into what you want and future plans.